Nimrod, the second capital of the Assyrian empire, once contained impressive, well-preserved ruins. Of special interest were the temple of Ninurta and Sargon's Palace, as well as the relief of lions with wings on the wall at the gate to Assurnasirpal II's Palace.
In early 2015 ISIS terrorists were photographed smashing the stone carvings with sledge hammers and a film of the entire complex being blown up was broadcast on social media. In addition, Daesh has destroyed many other ancient sites around Mosul, including Anah, Ashur, Hattra and Ninevah.
Nimrod is located 25 mi/35 km southeast of Mosul, on the Tigris.
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